FOR a side mired in the doldrums less than 12 months ago, this season has seen a remarkable transformation in the fortunes of Hinckley United.

FOR a side mired in the doldrums less than 12 months ago, this season has seen a remarkable transformation in the fortunes of Hinckley United.

The haphazard recruitment policy of the near-disastrous 2007/08 season has been ditched in favour of careful signings in key positions which have cemented the Knitters’ position as play-off contenders.

They don’t have the resources to compete for the title, but a quick glance at some of the sides below them shows what a good job Dean Thomas and his players are doing.

The irrepressible Andy Hall, discarded by Kettering Town in the summer, has been an absolute revelation, while in Connor Franklin the Knitters have arguably the best young left-back in the division. Andy Gooding has provided a creative touch in midfield while Alex Taylor has impressed with his tireless work ethic.

Whereas last season’s saviour Adam Webster once stuck out like a sore thumb as the best player in the side, he is now better complimented by those around him, meaning his 11 goals have totted up without fanfare rather than being the sole talking point as they were in the spring.

And the improved results have also come with an improved spectacle, as many have commented on a new-found willingness to get the ball down and play.

Now with the likes of Neil Cartwright and Craig McIlwain back in the fray, Thomas may be in the rare position of naming his strongest 11 plus a strong bench on a more regular basis.

The only disappointment has come in numerous losses to weak teams, including the disastrous FA Cup exit to Curzon Ashton which denied the club a big payday and a game against league opposition. Two defeats to a poor Burscough side and the embarrassing County Cup exit to Shepshed also grate.

There may be a handful of tiresome naysayers grumbling about the club and the manager’s every move, but on the whole the club is pulling together brilliantly and another ride on the play-off rollercoaster is a distinct possibility. And what a fantastic occasion that would be for everyone involved with the club.